(SportsRadio 610) - Rockets general manager Rafael Stone said Monday he believes it's time the team has a new voice, citing it as the primary reason for Stephen Silas' official dismissal as head coach.
The Rockets were 59-177 in three seasons under Silas, who Stone said was amazing to work with and they were "really lucky to have."
Houston now enters a new era, with cornerstone young pieces like Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Sengun, along with the continued development of Kevin Porter Jr. and K.J. Martin. There is also the 14-percent chance the Rockets could land the No. 1 overall pick from the draft lottery, which would all but ensure them French phenom Victor Wembanyama.
That last part is getting a bit ahead of ourselves. For now, the Rockets are looking for a new head coach. SportsRadio 610's Adam Spolane reported Sunday current Raptors head coach Nick Nurse, if he becomes available, Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson, former Lakers head coach Frank Vogel, former Celtics head coach Ime Udoka, and Blazers assistant Scott Brooks are at the top of their list.
Stone acknowledged Monday being intrigued by previously successful NBA head coaches who are available, but also said they would cast a wider net and interview candidates without prior head coaching experience.
Stone also responded to criticisms of the Rockets' organizational culture, to which the general manager gave a staunch defense.